Students looking to make right on their New Year’s resolution of getting healthier may find it tricky to find a membership that meets all of their needs. While it’s important to stay budget conscious, choosing the right gym membership is a key component in whether or not students get the most bang for their bucks. “Joining a gym that isn't geographically convenient, or that doesn't offer the kinds of programs or classes you like, or that doesn't have flexible hours can hugely impact the number of times you make it to the gym each week (or if you make it at all),” says Stephan Heppleston Director of www.gogirltimaru.co.nz “Joining a gym that isn't geographically convenient, or that doesn't offer the kinds of programs or classes you like, or that doesn't have flexible hours can hugely impact the number of times you make it to the gym each week (or if you make it at all), Prospective members should decide whether they want a simple gym layout or are looking for certain features and amenities (group fitness classes, tennis courts, swimming pool) “You may pay more for those other amenities just because there’s a cost factor associated with them when you may just want a bare-bones gym. Go-Girl Physique are centrally located in the middle of town and have a wide range of classes to suit most fitness levels. For students who want to get healthy and trim down fitness expenses, here are four financial tips on how to choose a gym membership.

Tip No.1: Consider an On-Campus Gym. Welcome to Timaru. That choice is not an option

Tip No.2: Ask for a Deal

Gyms typically offer the best deals of the year in January, such as waived enrollment fees or free upgrades, so don’t be afraid to ask gym employees what they are offering. Chances are this time of year, you will find a deal--and if there aren't, ask the manager for a student discount, which may be as high as a 25% discount. Go Girl Physique has a 3 month special for students under our foundation membership program. If no promotion is offered at another facility I suggest asking about having the sign-up fee waived, getting the first month free or asking for a few free personal training sessions. Membership consultants at gyms are in the business of getting more people to join, so it's in their best interest to negotiate with you and bring down the sign-up fees if it will result in you joining. You should also ask for at least a 1-day, if not a 1-week, free trial at any gym you are considering joining to make sure you like it. Go Girl Physique will give you a two week free trial if you choose.

Tip No.3: Know What You are Paying Now, Later

The experts urge students to ask about and fully understand the pricing options and potentially hidden fees before making a commitment. Some places have a flat fee, the enrollment fee--maybe you want to ask is there an annual fee, is there a processing fee? Are there fees associated with the membership? It’s vital to find out whether the membership can be paid for on a month to month basis or if it requires committing for a full year. Go Girl Physique have 6 month and 12 month pay as you go options.

Tip No.4: Carefully Review Any Contract

While it may be possible to get a better deal committing to a longer-term membership, students and grads need to be aware of the conditions of any contract they are signing up for. Some gyms mandate that you sign a contract for at least a year, which may not be in the best interest of students who may be spending winter break or the summer someplace else…ask if it is possible to ‘freeze’ your membership during months when you will be out of town. Also, if you're about to get into a long term contract, be honest with yourself when it comes to actually going to the gym, It might seem like a good idea during the start of the New Year, but come June, will you still be going to the gym? Why pay for something that you don't even use?

No matter what type of gym they ultimately decide to join, students should make sure to ask the right questions and do thorough research before signing up. You certainly want to pick the best option—it’ll make it that much more enjoyable for everyone and the gratification is tenfold when you feel good about where you’re spending your money.